I've been listening to my VSonic GR07s lately and while I think the balance is perfect, it has a very "dynamic" character in its presentation. Compared with my Phonaks I find that the VSonics are slightly slow and aren't particularly "snappy", which is a quality I really like in most BAs. What are some other $100-250 (used) balanced armatures that are nicely balanced? I thought the PFE122s with grey filters had great bass (coming from RE-0s, Xcapes, and CK10s - about even with the CK10s), until I tried the GR07s, which are relatively slightly bass heavy. I like the amount of sparkle the GR07s have, but detail in the mids and treble isn't quite up to the level I'd really like. I've been trying to find a pair of used Klipsch Custom 3s or A-T CK90Pros but both are quite rare on the used market. The Ortofon e-Q5s have also popped up on my radar but I'm afraid they'll be too dark and forgiving/smooth in the treble, nor do they look very ergonomic. I haven't identified anything else that might hit my targets (great detail all around, relatively neutral, not bass-light, treble-heavy nor recessed in mids, comfortable, low microphonics, and easily over-ear wearable - in that general order). I haven't really looked at the popular Shure or Westone offerings since they all seem to be moderately mid-oriented and I'm not sure if I'd like that or not.

I actually think the EQ5s fit your bill. They have more clarity than the GR07s and the bass is in between the Phonaks/GR07. They are also very ergonomic, easily one of the best cables I've used and the isolation is pretty outstanding. The fit is a tad fatiguing though considering these love a deep insertion. It sounds weird, but actually sticking AAA batteries in your ears is a good test in terms of insertion (they're obviously not going to be that heavy though). If you're really worried about fit though, I'll suggest the FAD A1s or GR10s.

^ GR10 is out of his price range, but I agree the e-Q5 would fit. However I'd recommend the FAD A1s (aka FI-BA-A1 or heaven a), even though their cable isn't as nice as the e-Q5's. But they are easier to fit and hit all your targets (great detail all around, relatively neutral, not bass-light, treble-heavy nor recessed in mids, comfortable, low microphonics, and easily over-ear wearable). Plus they're pretty snappy and even more so when amped. Isolation is slightly lower than with the e-Q5 though, if that's of concern.

^ Max diameter is about the same, but they're more rounded and taper towards the nozzle. My fit with the e-Q5 can be borderline uncomfortable at times, but never with the A1s. They're actually much easier for me to get a deeper fit with, which also improves isolation. Of course no two ears are the same and YMMV.

I'm about to order from accessory jack, I'm choosing between the ATH-CK10, Westone 2 or Ortofon e-Q5. Which would be best suited for trance and metal? I have read your descriptions, however still can't come to a conclusion. I loved my RE0, however they distorted at high volumes which ruined the experience.

Kind of saw this kind of respond coming, thanks a lot for the confirmation. I can definitely see how a flusher/deeper seal can be possible with the A1s, it looks more natural to insert that way with the FADs due to their overall shape. Thanks once again.

Interesting - I've never really read anything about the Final Audio IEMs. They look interesting in that they share a lot of characteristics with the Ortofons, but they DO sound like they'd be a good match... problem is, they're quite expensive, and no one sells them in the FS forums. Oh well... maybe sometime down the road.

But it does sound like a moving armature is what I want, in that it combines the texturing and bass/warmth of a dynamic with the speed and detail of a balanced armature. Anyone know if MA technology is catching on? So far I only know of three manufacturers - Ortofon, Grado (probably OEMed by one of the same companies, I imagine), and Final Audio. Anything on the horizon?